Mr Lamont (64) died at the scene while his 59-year-old wife (right) – who sustained horrific injuries – was rushed to Antrim Area Hospital.

She is currently recovering from her injuries.

Gregory Lamont (26) was arrested at the scene of the double stabbing at the family home at Carnvale, off the Carniny Road in Ballymena. At Ballymena Magistrates Court yesterday it was confirmed that the accused faces one charge of murder and another of attempted murder.

He was bailed on the sum of £500 to continue treatment at Knockbracken Healthcare Park in south Belfast.

He was instructed to adhere to all of the treatments and conditions at the clinic under the conditions of his bail.

The case was adjourned until next month.

Following his arrest, police confirmed that Gregory Lamont was no longer in their custody after he was sectioned under the Mental Health Act.

Before the incident, he had worked as a hospital porter and was said to have told friends that he had become a Christian before Christmas.

John Lamont, who was originally from Portglenone, Co Antrim, outside Ballymena, was a keen Ballymena United FC fan and a member of Milltown Accordion Band.

Neighbours said he retired within the past year, having worked as a technician at Aldergrove in Antrim.